HS JOURNALISM: Run for a cause, run for health

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By Laura Naber, Dyersville Beckman junior

DYERSVILLE - As we head toward the end of April, we can only hope that spring is on its way and warmer weather is in store.

Now that most of the snow has finally melted, opportunities arise for people to get outside and enjoy the new fresh air. This year, one of those opportunities could be running in a 5K road race.

I will admit, those 3.1 miles might seem kind of intimidating at first, so that is why I would start simple, by running the “Happiest 5K on the Planet” or, better known as, The Color Run.

The Color Run is a stress free, fun-filled, colorful race that brings people together. There are several races throughout the year and all over the country. There is even one in Des Moines.

According to thecolorrun.com, the race “celebrates healthiness, happiness, individuality and giving back to the community.”

These runs are not timed race and runners or walkers are engulfed in different powder-like colors at each kilometer. However, the fun doesn't stop at the finish line. After the race, there is a huge “Color Festival” where even more colored powder is thrown to make the experience more memorable. By the end of the race, the white shirts that participants are encouraged to wear are drenched in a bright rainbow.

Not only are the crazy splashes of color the race provides unique, but also how they give back to the community. For each city The Color Run visits, the organization will donate money to a local charity. This race is just one example of how people can stay in shape and help others out.

But this race is not the only race that benefits others. There are several races locally that help raise money for those in need.

One race in particular was held three years ago for my two cousins who were severely burned in a house explosion while on a work site. Because the two brothers were badly burned, they had to stay in the hospital for several months. Some people in the surrounding communities got together to organize a 5K race to help raise money for the boys. On the day of the race, everyone was wearing matching t-shirts to show support for the boys' recovery. It was so comforting to see so many people there, many of whom I was not even acquainted with.

Because of this experience, I am much more eager to join other races benefiting those who are sick or injured to show my support.

Therefore, these races can make a difference in people's lives, both economically and through support, and the 5K races help communities as well. In July, the town of Earlville hosts its annual 5K Firework Fun Run/Walk. The event takes place on the Fourth of July and is sponsored by the Earlville Community Club. The money raised helps support other events for the community throughout the year. Even though the race takes place during the hot month of July, it is still a lot of fun seeing a small community come together. This race is great summer activity for family and friends.

Road races raise peoples' awareness about staying fit as well as raising money to benefit those in need.

You don't have to be an all-star track or cross country runner to participate in a 5K. People just have to be willing to get out there and support a good cause, all while keeping the body moving.